Frequently Asked Questions

There are currently 59 Community Boards throughout New York City.  Each consists of up to 50 non-salaried volunteer members who are considered officials of the City of New York.  They are people who either live, work, or have a significant interest in the particular district the Community Board covers. Board Members are appointed by the Borough President, with half nominated by the City Council members who represent the district.

The Board serves as the voice of the community.  Residents and business owners can raise concerns, make complaints, and discuss possible solutions in a non-partisan environment. The people who live and work in a district generally know what's best for their neighborhood because they experience firsthand the day-to-day life of the community.  The Community Board serves as an advisory panel to all city officials and organizations, offering opinions in the form of Resolutions, incorporating the feedback received from community members.

Community Board Five represents the central business district of New York City.  It includes midtown Manhattan, the Fashion, Flower, Flatiron and Diamond Districts, as well as Bryant and Union Square Park. Our district is at the center of New York's tourism industry.  The Theatre District, Times Square, Carnegie Hall, the Empire State Building and two of the region's great transportation hubs - Grand Central Station and Penn Station -  all fall within Community Board Five.

Community Board Five has numerous individual committees that focus on particular areas of concern. Most Committees meet monthly to discuss mandated issues before them and/or other issues affecting the community.  Topics range from noise complaints, the granting of liquor licenses and permits for sidewalk cafes, to construction issues, zoning regulations, and the development and landmarking of buildings and neighborhoods, as well all issues concerning the delivery of municipal services.

The Full Board meets the second Thursday of most months. Individual Committees meet at various times throughout the month prior to the Full Board meeting and their meeting locations vary. Check the Calendar each month for the most current information.

Absolutely! The Community Board represents the community and members of the public are always invited to be present.   To speak at a Full Board Meeting, arrive early and put your name on the Speaker's List.  You will be given two minutes to speak during the Public Session.

To make a complaint, you may contact the District Office either by phone (212.465.0907), e-mail (office@cb5.org), or online.  Any complaint relating to municipal services can be made to the District Office, including those regarding noise, street cleanliness, pot holes, sidewalk congestion due to illegal vendors, or anything relating to the safety and quality of life of the District.  Many times problems such as these go unreported and are not resolved.  When you contact us, we suggest you include as much relevant information as possible. Information such as full addresses, names, cross streets, etc., can help speed the process along.  The District Office will take the information, enter the complaint, and follow-up with you.

Applications to become a member of Community Board Five are online at the Manhattan Borough President's website, mbpo.org.  Appointees are notified in writing by the Borough President's office.  Applications may also be obtained through the offices of the City Council member in whose district you reside.

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Community  Board Profile

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